The Iziko South African Museum (ISAM) is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year, marking a significant milestone as the oldest conventional museum in Southern Africa, Cape {town} Etc reports.

Established in 1825, the museum has accumulated a vast collection of over 10 million objects spanning multiple disciplines, including archaeology, anthropology, marine biology, palaeontology, and social history.

To commemorate this bicentenary, ISAM is launching a year-long program of exhibitions, events, and activities designed to showcase its extensive collections and contributions to research and heritage preservation. The celebrations will officially begin on 13 March 2025.

Jabulani Sithole, Chairperson of the Iziko Museums of South Africa Council, highlighted the importance of this milestone. ‘The South African Museum has played a vital role in preserving and promoting South Africa’s rich history and heritage. This bicentenary provides the opportunity to critically explore its impacts, contributions, changes, and difficult legacies,’ he said.

The museum’s plans for the year include major exhibitions featuring its significant collections and research, a series of public lectures with renowned experts, guided tours and interactive programs for schools and families, commemorative publications, and the launch of the South African Heritage Hub Centre—a new youth entrepreneurial initiative. Community engagement and outreach efforts will also be expanded.

Acting CEO of Iziko Museums of South Africa, Dr. Bongani Ndhlovu, emphasised the museum’s commitment to progress. ‘We are mindful of the challenges and opportunities ahead. This will have a positive impact as we upgrade our exhibitions, galleries, and embrace digital technologies. Furthermore, our teams are working with various stakeholders to address the question of sacred ancestral human remains. We are committed to ensuring that our museums remain vibrant and relevant,’ he said.

With ongoing infrastructural upgrades and a renewed focus on accessibility and inclusion, the Iziko South African Museum continues to serve as a hub for knowledge, history, and inspiration for diverse audiences.

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Picture: Supplied

Originally published by Aiden Daries for Cape {town} Etc.